An initially controversial rezone in Tippecanoe County has been approved by county commissioners.
In April, the Area Plan Commission advised against rezoning land just west of Battle Ground Middle School to allow development of high density housing.
The rezone was largely opposed by neighbors as well, who were concerned about the number of homes being proposed for the land and the drainage problems they might cause.
The request was tabled at last month’s commissioners meeting to give the developer a chance to address these issues.
Attorney Dan Teder says they have agreed to follow a rezone allowing fewer homes on larger lots, as well as requirements outlined by the county surveyor will actually improve drainage in the area overall.
George Bittles lives near the proposed neighborhood.
He says he’s grateful for the concessions, but wants the county to keep a close eye on the development.
“We’re going to stand by and watch as you go through this process," says Bittles. "We want to be involved in that. We want to hold you and the developer accountable for what they are offering. I believe they are honorable people, but we want to keep them honest and we want you to keep them honest.”
Commissioner Tom Murtaugh says many of the concerns were based on misconceptions.
“An important part of being a community of choice is having some variations and alternates of housing options," says Murtaugh. "And I think that obviously it’s going to be a very very good development. You know $160,00-220,000 for a price point is not something that is cheaply done.”
Construction is expected to begin in late 2016 or early 2017, with up to 236 homes being built over a ten-year period.
